Gilberts helps engineer European excellence

02 August, 2017

Contributing to the energy efficiency of the BREEAM ‘Excellent’-rated new headquarters of Tata Technologies at Tachbrook Park, Leamington Spa, is ventilation equipment supplied by Gilberts. Designed by architects Webb Gray, the 5800 m2 £20 million building will house engineering services that are focused on R&D into emerging technologies for automotive, aerospace and industrial machinery.

Internal airflow throughout is controlled by Gilberts linear slot diffusers and extract valves. Integrated into the facade are Gilberts external louvres.

To enable internal layouts to change with occupier demand, Gilberts advised that its GSL slot diffusers were used in meeting rooms and offices. GX extract valves provide air changes in open spaces such as reception and the restaurant. All duct back to the facade louvres, which provide intake and exhaust facilities.

Martin Malyon of Gilberts explained, ‘The diversity of use of the building, set alongside the BREEAM target, made devising a ventilation strategy that complied with all elements a complex task. We worked closely with BAM [the contractor] in specifying and selecting the correct items to ensure good air quality consistently throughout the building.’

Around 135 GSL linear slot diffusers have been installed in lengths up to 2 m. A choice of slot numbers and widths in each unit enable precise tailoring to each area’s specific requirements, supply or extract, from 73 to 217 l/s at Tachbrook

Some 45 GX extract valves efficiently remove stale air at up to 200 l/s through a fully adjustable central core, while limiting associated noise to below 40 dB(A).

Used air is transferred to ceiling voids, where it is channelled towards the WGF38 facade louvres, up to 2 m long. These compact louvres have 50% net free ventilation area.